Trends That Will Shape the Restaurant Industry in 2022

If you’re in the restaurant industry, it’s essential to stay ahead of the curve and know what trends will shape the industry in the future. In this article, we’ll look at some of the biggest trends expected to take hold in 2022.

From pickup shelves to technological advancements, these trends are sure to have a significant impact on restaurants over the next few years.

Kitchen Automation Will Become Commonplace

One trend expected to take off in a big way in 2022 is kitchen automation. This technology is designed to help streamline the food prep process and can be a huge time-saver for busy restaurants.

We’re already seeing this technology used in some high-end restaurants, but it’s expected to become more commonplace in the coming years. So if you’re not already using kitchen automation, now is the time to consider it.

The more you automate redundant and unsafe kitchen tasks, the better you can avoid an accident taking place. However, automation will not stop accidents in the workplace entirely. This is why your restaurant insurance coverage is essential. Due to the potential of injury to employees and guests, as well as property damage, restaurants are generally always required to have insurance.

Off-Premises Dining Will Continue to Grow

Another trend expected to impact restaurants in 2022 significantly is the continued growth of off-premises dining. Thanks to apps like Uber Eats and DoorDash, it’s easier than ever for customers to get their favorite meals delivered right to their door.

This trend is only expected to grow in the coming years, so restaurants must ensure they’re prepared for increased delivery and takeout orders.

Technology Will Play a Bigger Role in Restaurants

Recently, we’ve seen a growing trend of restaurants using technology to improve the customer experience. This trend is only expected to continue in 2022, with more and more restaurants using tablets, smartphones, and other devices to streamline the ordering process.

Some restaurants are even using augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to enhance the dining experience. If you’re not already using technology in your restaurant, now is the time to start considering it.

Labor Saving Technology Will Also Become Popular

With the rising labor cost, many restaurants are turning to labor-saving technology to help reduce expenses. This trend is expected to continue in 2022, with more restaurants investing in self-service kiosks, digital menus, and other similar technologies.

If you’re looking to cut costs in your restaurant, labor-saving technology is a great place to start.

Pickup Shelves Will Replace Curbside Pickup

Another trend expected to have a big impact on restaurants in 2022 is the growing popularity of pickup shelves. These shelves are designed for customers to pick up their orders without waiting in line or interacting with a staff member.

Some restaurants are already using pickup shelves, which are expected to become more common in the coming years. If you don’t have pickup shelves in your restaurant yet, now is the time to consider them.

Direct Ordering Will Usurp Third-Party Apps

Recently, we’ve seen a growing trend of customers using third-party apps like Uber Eats and DoorDash to order their food. However, this trend is expected to shift in 2022, with more customers ordering directly from restaurants.

A few reasons for this change include the rising cost of third-party fees and the increasing popularity of restaurant loyalty programs. If you’re not already set up for direct ordering, now is the time to consider it.

Restaurants Will Engage Their Communities More

In the past, restaurants have typically been focused on attracting new customers. However, this is starting to change, and we’re seeing a trend of restaurants engaging more with their local communities.

This trend is expected to continue in 2022, with more restaurants hosting community events, partnering with local businesses, and giving back to their neighborhoods.

Sustainability Will Become More Important

As consumers become more aware of the impact their food choices have on the environment, sustainability is becoming an increasingly important issue for restaurants.

This trend is expected to continue in 2022, with more customers looking for restaurants that source their ingredients from sustainable farms and use eco-friendly packaging.

Plant-Based Menus Will Grow in Popularity

As more and more people are looking to reduce their meat consumption, we’re seeing a trend of restaurants adding more plant-based options to their menus.

This trend is expected to continue in 2022, with many restaurants offering vegan, vegetarian, and flexitarian options. So if you haven’t already done so, now is the time to consider adding some plant-based alternatives to your menu.

Health and Safety Will Become Critical Factors in Restaurant Growth

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact the restaurant industry, health and safety will become even more critical in the coming years.

In 2022, we expect to see a continued focus on contactless ordering and payment and an increased emphasis on cleanliness and sanitation. So if you’re not already paying attention to these factors in your restaurant, now is the time to start.

Labor and Supply Chain Problems Will Put the Focus on Efficiency

The restaurant industry has been dealing with several labor and supply chain issues recently, which is expected to continue in 2022.

As a result, we expect to see a continued focus on efficiency in restaurants, with an emphasis on streamlining operations and minimizing waste.

Delivery and Contactless Ordering is Here to Stay

It’s important to note that the trend toward delivery and contactless ordering is here to stay.

As consumers become more accustomed to these ordering methods, we expect them to continue using them even after the pandemic ends. So if you haven’t already started offering delivery or contactless ordering in your restaurant, now is the time.

Restaurants Will Diversify Their Revenue Streams

In the past, restaurants have typically relied on a single revenue stream, such as dine-in, catering, or delivery.

However, this is starting to change, and we’re seeing a trend of restaurants diversifying their revenue streams such as retail sales, subscription services, and event space rental.

Learn More Restaurant Industry Trends

If you want to stay ahead of the curve in the restaurant industry, it’s essential to keep up with the latest trends.

For more information on what to expect in 2022, check out our blog for more helpful insights.